Life, Values & Legacy: Our Chat with Theresa Cunningham of Columbia

Theresa Cunningham shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

Hi Theresa, thank you so much for taking time out of your busy day to share your story, experiences and insights with our readers. Let’s jump right in with an interesting one: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
My morning routine starts before the sun is even up. Hazel my dog gets her necessary belly rubs, then I run her outside. Once I’m back, I make a cup of coffee and spend a few moments checking emails, social media, and planning my day. After letting Hazel back in, I love to curl up with my coffee and watch the morning news.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I specialize in coastal and abstract mixed media art, drawing inspiration from the landscapes and wildlife of the South Carolina Low Country.
My work utilizes texture and dynamic color, blending abstract and realistic styles to connect emotionally with the viewer. I aim to evoke a feeling of calm, curiosity, or an appreciation for natural beauty.
I am currently developing a new abstract and coastal series, which is scheduled for release in 2026.
You can view more of my portfolio and available works on my official Artist Theresa Cunningham website.

Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
The day my mother passed away. It felt as if my world had collapsed and a numbness had permanently settled in my chest. She was the heart of our family, the one who kept everyone connected and made sure we all knew we were loved. You understand that one day they’ll be gone, but you are truly never prepared for the reality of it. It’s been over twenty years now. Even still, I might catch myself laughing about something funny and want to grab my phone to call her. In those moments, I tell myself it’s her little nod to me, letting me know she’s still around.

What fear has held you back the most in your life?
Setting aside serious topics for a second, here’s something about me: At just 4’10” tall, a fear of heights has followed me my whole life—which is why skydiving has never, ever been on my bucket list.

I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. Is the public version of you the real you?
Yes, depending on where I am at the time. I am quite reserved if I’m around people that I don’t know at first but I gauge the room and eventually open up to people. At home, I’m in my element in my tiny studio space which for me consists of a messy bun, old clothes covered in paint and my favorite jazz music.

Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. When do you feel most at peace?
It would be at the very end of the day. After a long session in the studio, I wash my brushes and hang up my apron. Then I have dinner. Afterward, I go back into my studio for just a few peaceful minutes to reflect on the day’s work.

Contact Info:

Image Credits
Theresa Cunningham

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